Reflect: ‘The earth is constantly claimed by false gods, about which only the naive can say they’re invisible. Who is our Lord? And who should finally become our Lord? These are the central questions of existence.’ – Ernst Kasemann
Consider: What is one thing in your life that you are tempted to inappropriately elevate/worship?
Not to us, Lord, not to us
but to your name be the glory,
because of your love and faithfulness.
Why do the nations say,
“Where is their God?”
Our God is in heaven;
he does whatever pleases him.
But their idols are silver and gold,
made by human hands.
They have mouths, but cannot speak,
eyes, but cannot see.
They have ears, but cannot hear,
noses, but cannot smell.
They have hands, but cannot feel,
feet, but cannot walk,
nor can they utter a sound with their throats.
Those who make them will be like them,
and so will all who trust in them.
~ ~ ~
The highest heavens belong to the Lord,
but the earth he has given to people.
It is not the dead who praise the Lord,
those who go down to the place of silence;
it is we who extol the Lord,
both now and forevermore.
Praise the Lord. Psalm 115:1-8, 16-18 (NIV)
Pray: Father, thank you for your patience and understanding. Forgive me for cherishing the things that are selfish and temporary; help me instead to cherish what is meaningful and eternal. Lend my voice to the voices of your people around the world today as we celebrate you, the God who is Love.